Tranquility in design: Yoonmo Koo’s 'Dansaek' collection radiates elegance

A collection steeped in the warmth of nature’s hues, the wonder of repetitive elements and the tactile textures of Korean monochromatic paintings sets the stage for Korean designer Yoonmo Koo’s approach to contemporary design. At the forefront of his field, Koo seamlessly blends artistry with functionality, infusing each creation with a profound passion for evoking contemplation and connection. The designer’s Dansaek collection exudes a sense of timelessness and elegance. With a masterful blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design sensibility, each furniture piece becomes a reflection of the product designer’s visionary spirit, resonating with individuals who seek to surround themselves with beauty, comfort and meaning in their everyday lives.

The Dansaekhwa movement, which emerged in South Korea during the 1970’s sought to find harmony and tranquillity amidst the chaos through minimal compositions and repetitive elements. Grounded in the principles of minimalism and simplicity, Dansaekhwa artists responded to the tumultuous social and political landscape of their time by creating works that transcended the chaos, offering viewers a serene space for contemplation and introspection. While minimalism often conjures images of starkness, traditional Korean monochromatic paintings were imbued with warmth and depth that invited viewers to engage on a deeper emotional level. This warmth was often achieved through the use of earthy tones and subtle gradations, reflecting on the artist’s reverence for nature and the cyclic rhythms of life.

Furthermore, the art movement’s emphasis on repetitive elements and meditative processes reflected not solely a dedication to craft but also a philosophical exploration of repetition as a pathway to tranquillity. By incorporating these elements into his furniture designs, Koo extends the legacy of Dansaekhwa beyond the canvas, creating contemporary furniture that resonate with the movements’ ethos of harmony, simplicity and introspection. As the furniture designer aptly puts it, “Art should not remain confined to galleries and museums but should penetrate into daily life”, encapsulating the essence of the movement’s enduring relevance in contemporary design.

Central to the product designer’s design philosophy is the pursuit of tranquillity through form. Each piece is carefully constructed to achieve harmony and balance, drawing inspiration from the serene compositions of Korean paintings. The hexahedron box expresses characteristics of the art movement, embodying its principles of minimalism and simplicity. Koo’s attention to detail extends beyond aesthetics, as he carefully considers the functional aspects of each design. From the graceful curves of a chair to the precise angles of a table, every aspect of his creations is thought out to create a sense of ease and comfort. By integrating form and function, Koo’s designs for the benches, stools, and chairs, are monolithic and inscribed with intricate markings which celebrate vibrant hues and gradient forms. They become more than mere objects; they are vessels for calmness, inviting individuals to find solace and serenity in their everyday surroundings.

The process of transforming wood into canvases for Koo’s product designs is a detailed one, involving a delicate balance of emptying and filling. Through various methods, from hand tools to CNC machines sections of the wood are carved out and filled with resin to create unique textures and interplays of light and shadow. Each piece is imbued with the essence of Dansaekhwa, celebrating its beauty while inviting viewers to engage with its tactile beauty. The process of transforming wood into a canvas for the furniture designer’s collection is a labour of love that involves a delicate balance of tradition and innovation.

Beginning with the selection of high-quality wood, Koo prepares the material for its transformation, paying careful attention to its grain, texture and natural beauty. Once the basic structure is established, Koo begins the intricate process of filling and emptying, a technique inspired by the repetitive elements of Dansaekhwa paintings. With precision, the resin is carefully applied to the carved–out sections, creating unique textures and interplay of light and shadow. Each layer of resin is applied thoughtfully, allowing it to settle and cure before the next step. Through this process of filling and emptying, the designer elevates the natural beauty of the wood, transforming it into a canvas that celebrates the art. The result is a collection of product designs that not only serve as functional objects but also works of art.

The colour palette of the Dansaek collection is deeply rooted in the designer’s reverence for nature and his desire to evoke a sense of serenity and harmony. Inspired by the diverse landscapes and seasonal changes of Korea, Koo carefully selects hues that reflect the beauty and harmony found in the natural world. Each colour is chosen not only for its visual appeal but also for its emotional resonance, aiming to create an atmosphere of comfort and serenity within the home. By harmonising warm tones with the natural grain of wood, the designer seeks to create a seamless integration of colour and texture, inviting individuals to connect with their surroundings on a deeper level. From the earthy richness of browns and ochres to the soothing hues of blues and greens, every colour in the collection is thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of peace and balance, ensuring that each piece becomes a source of joy and inspiration in daily life.

The Korean artists' furniture pieces serve as catalysts for meaningful dialogue and introspection. Inspired by the emotive power of art, each chair design engages in a deeper conversation about the intersection of beauty, functionality and emotion. Through observation and interaction, individuals are encouraged to explore the subtle nuances of Dansaekhwa-inspired design, discovering new layers of meaning with each encounter. Koo’s creations become more than just furniture; they are conduits for expression and connection, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.

Through observation and interaction, Koo invites viewers and users to immerse themselves in a world where art transcends the confines of the canvas and permeates everyday life. Each piece tells a story, inviting viewers to engage with its tactile beauty and contemplate the deeper meaning behind its design. With each creation the designer strives to leave a lasting impression, fostering a deeper connection between art and daily life. As Koo eloquently expresses to STIR, he says, “I want people to look at my work with their own thoughts and emotions, just as they look at my work”. This sentiment underscores his commitment to inviting personal interpretation and emotional resonance with his furniture designs.

Looking ahead, Koo is excited to continue pushing the boundaries of furniture design inspired by the Dansaekhwa art movement. He is exploring new avenues for creativity, experimenting with innovative materials and techniques and seeking out fresh sources of inspiration. With a passion for innovation and deep respect for tradition, Koo is poised to make even greater contributions to the intersection of art and functionality in the world of furniture. As he continues to evolve and grow, the Korean designer remains committed to creating pieces that resonate with people on a profound level, enriching their lives with beauty, comfort and meaning.